FCT Lawmaker Pushes for Independent Police to Tackle Security Challenges

A member of the House of Representatives representing Bwari/AMAC Federal Constituency, Hon. Obika Chinedu, has called for urgent constitutional amendments to establish an independent police force for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as part of efforts to curb rising insecurity in the nation.

Speaking on Saturday during the commissioning of a joint security outpost built by the Pmagbe community in Ushafa, Bwari Area Council, the Labour Party lawmaker stressed the importance of decentralised policing, arguing that the growing security challenges should not rest solely on the Federal Government.

Hon. Chinedu stated that the FCT has the capacity to fund its own security structure, capable of ensuring the safety of residents. He also noted that improving security would attract investors, pointing out that “no serious investor would commit resources to a place where safety cannot be guaranteed.”

“My three key legislative priorities are education, health, and rural infrastructure,” Chinedu said. “But we are working on another legislative agenda—the establishment of an FCT independent police force. This requires constitutional amendments because our current arrangements are inadequate.

“The FCT generates enough revenue to fund its security. We should take a percentage of these funds to provide patrol vehicles, CCTVs, and drones if necessary. I have even suggested to Mr. President that the FCT be used as a pilot state for state policing, as this is what will secure us.”

The lawmaker criticised politicians who focus more on election politics than on addressing security challenges. “Security is not a political issue; it is a life-and-death matter. While discussing investments in Nigeria, the first thing I insist on is solving the security problems,” he said.

Chinedu also recalled that the security situation in the FCT was in turmoil before his assumption of office, saying his office has consistently supported community-led security initiatives to safeguard residents.

“We continue to support projects like this outpost so our people can live safely,” he added.